Exploring the Jewish Experience (EJE) Course – 2026

A Program of Shabbat with Friends New Mexico 

The Exploring the Jewish Experience (EJE) course offers a deep and holistic look at Jewish history, religious ideas, culture, and practices. More than an introduction, it provides insight into one of the world’s oldest and most enduring communities. 

Classes alternate between Albuquerque and Santa Fe each semester, with an online option available for all participants. 

What Makes EJE Unique? 

✅ Tackles contemporary issues such as:  

• Israel and the Diaspora 
• The history and impact of Anti-Semitism 
• The rise of Anti-Zionism among Jews and non-Jews 

✅ Open to all ages and backgrounds—Jewish, non-Jewish, intercultural couples, and anyone curious about Judaism. 

✅ Taught by New Mexican Rabbis and Jewish educators in a pluralistic approach, honoring diverse Jewish traditions and perspectives. 

✅ No proselytizing—our goal is understanding, not conversion. 

The course may fulfill the year of Jewish learning requirement for those considering conversion, but its primary aim is to deepen Jewish understanding and foster appreciation among participants from all faiths and cultures. 

2026 Course Schedule 

• Winter: Mitzvot and Maasim Tovim – The Jewish Way of Life 

Jan 20 – Mar 24 | Tuesdays, 7–8:30 PM | Albuquerque & Online 

• Spring: Am Yisrael – History of the Jewish People 

 Apr 14 – Jun 16 | Tuesdays, 7–8:30 PM | Santa Fe & Online 

• Fall: Torah from Sinai – 10 Illustrative Texts 

 Sep 8 – Nov 11 | Tuesdays, 7–8:30 PM | Albuquerque & Online 

Registration & Tuition 

• Winter registration opens Dec 1, 2025 

• Register by semester or for the full year 

• Tuition:  $72 per semester | $180 for all three semesters (save $36) 

• Financial aid available upon request 

About the Program 

 The EJE Course is a program of Shabbat with Friends New Mexico, affiliated with the Miller Introduction to Judaism Program at American Jewish University (Los Angeles). Sponsored by HaMakom, Santa Fe, and the Los Alamos Jewish Center, with partial funding from the National Center to Encourage Judaism. 

Rabbi Dov Gartenberg

Email: dov@shabbatwithfriends.org

Website: https://shabbatwithfriends.org

POSTNET 1704 Llano St. Suite B, PMB 1164, Santa Fe, NM, 87505

Payment by Check: Please make your check payable to Shabbat with Friends NM. Please write in the memo, "EJE Course Tuition" You may send tuition payment by check to this address Shabbat with Friends NM POSTNET 1704 Llano St. Suite B, PMB 1164, Santa Fe, NM, 87505